Paralympics End with a Message of Unity Amid Global Tensions
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The 2026 Winter Paralympics concluded on Sunday with a grand closing ceremony in Cortina, where China topped the medal table despite several countries protesting the decision to allow Russian athletes to compete under their national flag.
International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons praised the athletes for 'rising above pressure, expectation, and global tension' to focus on their sport.
The IPC's decision to allow Russia's return after 12 years dominated the headlines, with the country finishing third in the medals table, thanks to eight golds, one silver, and three bronzes.
The Games were hailed as a 'record-breaking success' by Parsons, featuring more athletes, nations, and women than any previous edition.
Italy enjoyed its best-ever Paralympic Winter Games, winning 16 medals and finishing fourth in the table.
The ceremony started with a dance choreography featuring able-bodied and disabled dancers, followed by the raising of the Italian flag and national anthem.
